How To: Paint Aluminum

Follow these five steps to update any aluminum object with a fresh coat of paint.

A lightweight and durable material, aluminum has long been used for construction projects and home furnishings. Though the silvery-white metal looks sleek and modern on its own, many homeowners opt to update their aluminum surfaces with a fresh coat of paint. Whether you want to refresh an old filing cabinet or decorate a patio chair, the process is relatively straightforward. Simply follow the instructions laid out here for how to paint aluminum to makeover metal surfaces in no time.

STEP 1 Find a well-ventilated work area, and lay drop cloths to protect the surrounding surfaces from paint splatters. Then, thoroughly clean your aluminum before you get started on your transformation. Mix a few squirts of degreasing cleaner (either a specialty product from the home improvement store or a grease-cutting dish detergent) with warm water in a large bucket, and dip a rag in the suds to wipe away dust and dirt. If the aluminum object is covered in rust or a flaking layer of paint, you’ll also need to scrub it gently with a wire brush to remove this layer—either can prevent a layer of fresh paint from fully adhering.

Allow the aluminum to air-dry completely.

STEP 2 Next, you’ll need to sand the aluminum surface to further help your paint job stick. Don protective gear—gloves, goggles, and a dust mask—to save yourself from exposure to the metal dust particles. Then, using either a sanding block or sandpaper, rough up the every side, corner, and crevice on the object. If you’re working on a larger, more flat surface like an outdoor tabletop, you may find that the job goes faster with a power sander. Whatever tool you choose, start with a coarse 80- to 100-grit paper before sanding the surface a second time with a finer grit (400-grit or higher).

Wash the piece again with warm water and a degreasing cleaner to remove any dust from the sanding process; dry completely.

Photo: istockphoto.com

STEP 3 When preparing aluminum for paint, it’s important to use a self-etching primer. Its special formulation contains chemicals that micro-etch the surface of the aluminum for the best bond possible. Fortunately, it’s a cinch to apply: Purchase a self-etching primer in spray paint form from a home improvement store or auto specialty shop and spray the primer on in thin coats, according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Wait the recommended dry time that’s listed on the primer’s packaging. Then, lightly sand the piece again with 400-grit sandpaper, and wipe away the resulting dust using a rag.

STEP 4 Choose acrylic or latex paint in matte or satin, and stay away from glossy finishes—these are not ideal for painting aluminum, as they will highlight imperfections like dents and scratches often found in the lightweight metal. (If you’re painting an outdoor item like aluminum patio furniture, don’t forget to pick a paint labeled “exterior-grade.”) Base your choice of application (either spray or brush) on the size of your paint job and your personal preference.

Then, follow the manufacturer’s directions for your chosen paint with regard to the number of coats recommended and drying time between each.

STEP 5 After the paint has thoroughly dried, apply at least two coats of enamel sealer to your project. This layer will help protect the painted aluminum from chipping, scratching, or fading over years of use. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on cure times before you set anything on or start using your newly-painted aluminum item once again.

All of the Expert Painting Advice from BobVila.com Of all the options available to remodelers, paint provides the quickest, easiest, and most affordable way to achieve a transformation, inside or out. Ready to look at your home in a new way? Click now for the color ideas to make your project beautiful.